Lalluram desk. A significant increase in the Asian lions population has been seen in Gujarat, according to the latest census made in May 2025, the number has been estimated to 891. This is much higher than the 674 lions recorded in the census made five years ago.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced the updated data in Gandhinagar, in which he said that lions are now being found beyond their traditional residence Gir National Park. PTI quoted him as saying, “The growth of 217 lions is notable, but equally important is that their presence has increased in 11 districts of Saurashtra region including coastal and non-viable areas.”
The data released by the Gujarat Forest Department indicates that the current population includes 196 male, 330 female, 140 sub-yasks and 225 cubs. This dispersion highlights the increasing customization capacity and extended range of lions.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Jaipal Singh confirmed that 384 lions were recorded within Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, while 507 were found in areas outside its borders. These extended houses include other sanctuaries like Mitiala, Pania, Girnar and Barda, where 17 lions were seen. Officials also said that the largest Pride in Bhavnagar district was of 17 lions.
The 16th edition of the lions census was done in four days from 10 to 13 May, including a huge area of about 35,000 square kilometers in 58 talukas in 11 districts. The census was done in two phases, which began on 10–11 May with an initial evaluation and ended with a final calculation on 12–13 May.
A total of 3,000 participants, including officers, calculators and volunteers, contributed to this effort. The census used advanced methods such as direct beat verification, a system that is praised for minimal margin of high accuracy and error. This process was carried forward by modern equipment including high-resolution cameras, camera traps and GPS-competent radio collar.
Participants recorded major observations such as lions, direction of movement, physical characteristics, age, gender and accurate location. The districts where the lions were reported to be seen include Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Bhavnagar, Amreli, Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, Botad, Porbandar, Jamnagar and Devbhoomi Dwarka.
